Press Releases

April 12, 2006
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Jeffrey Raddatz
Phone: (414) 431-6121
E-mail: jraddatz@wihumane.org

Easter Etiquette
Should you leave cookies out for the Easter Bunny?

GRAFTON, WI – The Easter holiday typically means spending quality time with the family and for some children, a visit from the Easter Bunny. While the holiday can be fun for people, it can be a little stressful for companion animals. Guardians of companion animals are encouraged to follow these tips from the Ozaukee Humane Society:

• Bunnies make great companion animals – they’re lovable, furry and very playful. They are also becoming very popular. OHS has lots of great tips to help people prepare their home and family for a rabbit. Plus, OHS has lots of great rabbits available for adoption. Plus, it is important to have your rabbit spayed or neutered and the ones at OHS have already had their surgery and lots of socialization.

For those who have a rabbit, OHS has the perfect supplies to keep the bunny happy and healthy. Stop by the Animal Antics retail store at the shelter. For more information, call 262-377-7580.

• While baby chicks are cute, they should never be given as gifts at Easter or any other time. The chicks may be small and adorable now, but in a few short months that little chick will turn into a very large bird with dietary and housing needs. In Ozaukee County, it is illegal to keep one of these birds in your home.

• Remind the Easter Bunny to hide the Easter baskets in a spot where any of your companion animals cannot reach. Candy – especially chocolate – is very harmful to our furry friends. And, don’t leave cookies out for the Easter Bunny—timothy hay is really her favorite.

• Make sure grass from Easter baskets are not on the floor. This plastic grass can be dangerous if ingested by your animal. Also, keep plants such as Easter lilies away from your animals because they can be fatal.

• Your companion animal might not be used to a lot of hustle and bustle the holidays often bring. Consider moving your furry friend to an area of the house that will be less noisy and busy.

• As always, make sure your companion animal is microchipped and wearing an identification tag at all times. OHS rabbits are already microchipped; we wouldn’t want anyone to go missing during the Easter Egg Hunt.

Great photo opportunities are available of rabbits and Easter gifts for people and animals.

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